Oh, let me tell you about the joy of making my favorite vegan spaghetti sauce! There’s just something magical about creating a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients. I mean, who knew that a simple combination of veggies and crushed tomatoes could come together to make such a delightful, healthy sauce? This vegan spaghetti sauce is a celebration of freshness that you can whip up in no time. Trust me, once you taste how delicious and satisfying it is, you’ll be hooked! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those nutrients while enjoying your pasta. Let’s dive into the goodness!

Ingredients for Vegan Spaghetti Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil – This will be your base for sautéing, giving a lovely rich flavor to the sauce.
1 onion, chopped – A must-have for that aromatic foundation; the more finely you chop, the better it will blend into the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor that really elevates the entire dish!
1 carrot, diced – It adds natural sweetness and a lovely texture; just make sure to dice it small so it cooks evenly.
1 bell pepper, diced – Any color works here! It brings a nice crunch and vibrant color to the sauce.
1 zucchini, diced – This veggie absorbs flavors beautifully and adds a bit of moisture to the mix.
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes – The star of the show! Look for quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
2 teaspoons dried oregano – This herb gives your sauce that classic Italian flair.
1 teaspoon dried basil – Another essential herb that pairs perfectly with tomatoes; you can also use fresh if you have it!
Salt to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your sauce.
Pepper to taste – A pinch of freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice warmth.

How to Prepare Vegan Spaghetti Sauce

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. This is where the magic begins!
Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re fragrant and the onion turns translucent. Seriously, the smell is heavenly!
Next, stir in the diced carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook this colorful mix for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften a bit. You want them tender but still with a nice bite!
Now, it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering step is crucial for deepening those flavors!
Once done, serve your delicious sauce over cooked spaghetti and dig in! Trust me, it’s going to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Spaghetti Sauce

Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 40 minutes!
Packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients that are good for you.
Rich, flavorful sauce that will impress even non-vegans.
Customizable with your favorite veggies and spices.
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Tips for Success with Vegan Spaghetti Sauce

To make sure your vegan spaghetti sauce turns out absolutely perfect, here are a few tips that I swear by! First, don’t be shy with your seasoning—taste as you go! You might find that a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper makes all the difference. If you like a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for that extra heat.

Also, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added depth and a hint of umami flavor. If you have any leftover veggies in your fridge, toss them in! Mushrooms, spinach, or even eggplant work beautifully in this sauce. Lastly, let it simmer longer if you have the time; the longer it cooks, the more those flavors meld together. Enjoy the process—your taste buds will thank you!

Variations of Vegan Spaghetti Sauce

The beauty of this vegan spaghetti sauce is its versatility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. For a heartier sauce, toss in some chopped mushrooms or lentils for added protein. Feeling adventurous? Try adding some spinach or kale for a nutritional boost; they wilt down beautifully and blend right in!

If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. And don’t forget about herbs! Fresh basil or parsley added at the end can brighten up the flavors. The possibilities are endless—get creative and make it your own!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Please note that the nutritional information provided for this vegan spaghetti sauce is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. Factors like the type of olive oil or the brand of canned tomatoes can affect the final numbers. For the most accurate information, I recommend calculating the nutrition using the exact products you have on hand. Enjoy your healthy cooking!

FAQ About Vegan Spaghetti Sauce

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Absolutely! If you have fresh tomatoes, chop about 6-8 medium-sized ones and use them in place of the canned crushed tomatoes. Just be aware that you might need to simmer a bit longer to achieve the right consistency.

Is this sauce gluten-free? Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free pasta, this vegan spaghetti sauce is a great option for those on a gluten-free diet!

How can I make this sauce richer? For a deeper flavor, try adding a splash of red wine during the cooking process or a tablespoon of tomato paste. Both options will enhance the richness of the sauce.

Can I freeze the leftovers? Definitely! This vegan spaghetti sauce freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your delicious vegan spaghetti sauce fresh, let it cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the sauce! Just pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion, and it’ll last for about 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat—just make sure to stir halfway for even heating!

What to Serve with Vegan Spaghetti Sauce

When it comes to serving up my vegan spaghetti sauce, the options are endless! A classic garlic bread is a must-have alongside—it’s perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce. You could also whip up a fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch. If you’re feeling a bit heartier, consider pairing it with some roasted vegetables or a side of sautéed greens, like spinach or kale. All these sides not only complement the sauce beautifully but also make for a colorful, wholesome meal. Enjoy every bite!

Vegan Spaghetti Sauce: 7 Reasons You’ll Love It

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious vegan spaghetti sauce made with fresh ingredients.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
Stir in diced carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini, cook for 5 minutes.
Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve over cooked spaghetti.

Notes

Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Add red pepper flakes for heat.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 150
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: vegan spaghetti sauce, plant-based sauce, healthy pasta sauce

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